Following a competitive tender, Prowse was appointed by Wealden District Council to deliver its ‘Re-opening High Streets Safely’ and ‘Welcome Back’ programmes during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The brief went beyond simply boosting footfall - it was about rebuilding confidence in local shopping, supporting independent retailers to get online and engaging communities.

Jo began with extensive consultations across sixteen Wealden towns and villages to shape the funding programme. From this, a new place marketing brand, “Shop & Dine Well in Wealden,” was created, complete with personalised logos for each location to spark local pride. New Facebook and Twitter channels, connected to Wealden’s corporate social media accounts, offered residents and businesses a space to share, interact, and stay informed.

Arts-led projects were central: in Pevensey, we delivered a community Animal Safari Trail along with a plastic bottle challenge that mobilised residents to collect 1,000 bottles for recycling in a month. Christmas arts trails were rolled out in Crowborough (Nutcracker Trail) and in Wadhurst, Heathfield, and Polegate Augmented Reality High Street Trails were delivered in close collaboration with local MPs, councils, and business groups.

To reinforce COVID safety, a stakeholder group provided resources to local councils, while videos filmed in eight locations with East Sussex College students showcased high street vibrancy and gave students practical work experience.

We delivered broadcast, print, advertising and social media campaigns - including editorials in 11 parish magazines and regional press with community-focused messages.

It all added up to help revitalise Wealden’s high streets, rebuild consumer confidence and guide retailers through the challenges of COVID-era trading.